Cultural Briefing Report

Introduction3

Background Information3

Macro environmental Facts of Paris4

Value Description: Hofstede's Model5

Power Distance6

Individualism vs. Collectivism6

Masculinity vs. Femininity6

Uncertainty Avoidance6

Long Term Orientation7

French Business Structures8

French Management Style8

French Meetings9

French Teams9

French Communication Styles10

Managerial Challenges10

Conclusion12

Suggestions12

References14

Cross Cultural Briefing Report

Section A

Introduction

Background Information

GeekChic is an application developing company. The organisation has streamlined their International activities. The company is expanding to distinct countries. Recently, the company has planned a business venture in Paris, France. In this regard, GeekChic has assigned the managerial tasks for two year assignment. France is a place of distinct cultural values. It is essential for the manager to be aware of the cultural contrast, in order to deliver management tasks. The primary purpose of this report is to present briefings on the cross-cultural theme. The report analyses the macro environmental factors of the operating environment.

The report presents managerial challenges along with cultural implications. This report aims to analyse the management & business culture in France. Cultural intelligence enables managers to identify the most appropriate management strategies. Section B highlights the analysis, which is followed by recommendations in the Section C.

Macro environmental Facts of Paris

PESTEL analysis serves as a suitable framework for analysing the macro-environment of Paris. It highlights the Political, Economic, Social, Technological, Environmental, and Legal trends in a region. Paris has a central position in France. The city has been central to a number of global businesses.

France is a country which follows democratic principles of politics. The political situation is stable in France. Paris has a significant contribution in the France economy. The country earns through Paris tourism, as well. Tourism infrastructure has a major contribution towards France's economy. The GDP, for Paris, reached around 800 US dollars. The business & financial services account for 50% of the region's GDP. Service industry accounts for more than 80% of the revenue generation.

Figure 1: French Industrial Contribution (Source: French Institute of Statistics)

The strength of the economy can be understood by a simple fact. During the great financial crisis, Paris economy did not decline (Euro Challenge, 2012). French is a country with rich cultural values. Paris is considered as one of the biggest manufacturing house of the Western Europe (See figure 1). However, manufacturing has been largely replaced with the services business. The region forms the Western part of Europe. Therefore, the city has the latest technological infrastructure. Information & Communication Technologies are going through constant evolution (Hokker, 2008). The city has a moderate climate. In summer, the temperature remains moderate with occasional heat waves. In winter, the temperature drops to freezing point. One can experience occasional rain full during any time of year. On contrary, India has a tropical climate; the country has diversified climatic characteristics in distinct regions (Indian Meteorological Department, 2010).

Social factors include luxurious life styles. French has a great sense for perfumes & scents. Further, the car companies make the most out of the French taste for luxurious transportation. The legislation works towards preserving the environment from the environmental hazards. The environment safety plan protects the “green” of the ...